“Hineni” (pronounced hee-nay-nee) is the Hebrew cry for, “Here I am.”

It is used in the Old Testament by people when they respond to a direct call from God. Saying, “Here I Am,” is a humble reply of total surrender and complete dedication to God, even before fully understanding what God is asking. Answering with, "Here I Am," marks a turning point in the lives of those who have responded to God with this heart cry:

When God tested Abraham by asking him to make an unthinkable sacrifice, Abraham responded with, “Here I Am.”  Through this response Abraham received a great blessing from God, and ultimately became a blessing to all people.

Jacob was afraid to go to Egypt, but when God called out to him in a vision, Jacob’s response was, “Here I Am.”  And thus, God gave Jacob the courage to obey the calling.

When God called to Moses from the bush, his reverent response was, “Here I Am.” This willing response unlocked the ultimate purpose for Moses’ life, and it also led to great freedoms for God’s people.

Samuel is called by God three times in the middle of the night, and each time he responds with, “Here I Am.”  And thus the Lord grew Samuel, the Lord was close to Samuel, and he was used for great kingdom purposes.

When Isaiah heard God’s heart for the nations and recognized the need for someone to go, he responded with, “Here I Am Lord, send me.” God took Isaiah’s heart posture and made him a prophet for the nations, foretelling of King Jesus, who was coming to save.

This is what we long for to see in a generation. In our broken world, we need Jesus to release hope and healing. Jesus, break my heart for what breaks Yours. My answer is yes, even before I fully know what You are asking of me. Here I Am, Lord. Send me.